ForgePix vs ImageFocus Alpha

ForgePix is beta software for automatic focus stacking and computational photography, with workflows for macro, astrophotography, and long-exposure image series. Its Macro, Astro, Hybrid, and Long Exposure modules include a one-click Automatic mode that selects usable frames, aligns and merges them, then applies gentle sharpening. Focus merges can use Laplacian pyramid, depth map, weighted average, à-trous wavelet, or halo fix methods. Astro tools cover calibration-frame detection, star alignment, rejection methods, drizzle, multi-session stacking, and FITS export. Editing and output features include RAW support, a Camera-Raw editor, retouch brush, batch processing, watch folder, and export presets for JPG, TIFF, layered Photoshop TIFF, and FITS. ForgePix says processing is fully local and does not require AI, a server, or external astronomy software. Optional language assistants and external tools are available. Assistant setup sends preview frames, sharpness profile, basic EXIF data, and the user's wish, but not original files or location data. Experimental local AI image models are not enabled by default and may alter faint structures, flux, or star shapes. ForgePix is free under the MIT license, with downloads for Linux, macOS, and Windows.

ImageFocus Alpha is microscope image capture and analysis software from Euromex. It supports measurements and annotations on live views and captured images, with tools for segmentation, counting, image stitching, and extended depth of focus. Fluorescence functions include combining captured fluorescence images. Images can be saved as.jpg,.tif,.bmp, or.dicom files, and videos as.avi files. Euromex provides installations for Windows, Mac OS, and Linux, as well as Android and iOS apps for Wi-Fi enabled devices. The full package includes DirectShow, Twain, and µManager drivers. The Alpha download is designed for compatible Euromex equipment, including USB-3 Pro and scientific cameras, cooled and Wi-Fi cameras, HD-Pro and other VC cameras, a digital bScope, and DC.2000L. The listed ImageFocus Alpha plan is free, and Euromex says software updates are available free from its website. The iOS app is available only through the App Store. Euromex describes the software as supplied with camera solutions for universities, laboratories, and industry, and directs customers to its downloads page for assistance.